ようこそ ＆ Welcome
Foyle Obon is a pioneering Japanese arts organisation leading the way in the development and delivery of Japanese arts in Northern Ireland.
We focus on local and international partnership building, commissioning and education projects, supporting emerging and established artists and building community and intercultural understanding. We are home to the Foyle Obon Japanese Festival – the only Obon festival in Europe and the only place in Northern Ireland where you can get good Kakigori shaved ice!
Foyle Obon Festival 2025 – Brochure!
We are back with our community showcase festival on Saturday 24th May 2pm to 6pm in the beautiful grounds of The Playtrail, Racecourse Road, Derry BT48 7RE!
This year we are thrilled to welcome Mitsuru Ishizuka and Taiyo Onoda from world-famous taiko group Kodō as guest artists!
We will also have performances by our local taiko groups and dancers, plenty of games and activities and delicious food available to purchase on the day. This year is not to be missed! Check out the brochure below for more information.
Tickets £10 ( under 3’s go free) and are available to purchase here!
ten years of Foyle Obon
Can you believe it is 10 years since the very beginning of Foyle Obon?! フォイルオボンが始まってから10年が経ちました！
In 2014, a small group of dedicated people came together to form Foyle Obon, a registered charity organisation which aims to use Japanese arts as a force for good in post conflict Northern Ireland. To celebrate we will be looking back and sharing some of the highlights and special moments for some #foyleobonflashbackFridays throughout 2024!
これを記念して、2024年の#foyleobonflashbackFridaysのために、いくつかのハイライトと特別な瞬間を振り返り、共有したいと思います！
Taiko research project
In collaboration with Ulster University, this study investigated the effects of participating in taiko drumming classes on individuals’ physical health, psychological wellbeing, and sense of community belonging. Through qualitative analysis and evaluation, we aimed to deepen our understanding of the role of the arts, particularly performing arts, in enhancing mental health outcomes.
News & Upcoming events
Catch up with all the latest about our work and community and find out about what is coming up!